This is the USA release of "So Far, So Good... So What!" the third studio album by American heavy metal band Megadeth. It was released by Capitol Records in 1988. It is the band's only album recorded with Chuck Behler and Jeff Young, who were fired immediately after the subsequent tour.
On the 19th of January 1988, American heavy metal band Megadeth unleashed their third studio album upon the world, titled "So Far, So Good... So What!" This iconic album, released as a 12" LP vinyl in the USA, marked a crucial point in the band's history. In this page, we'll delve into the making of this album, its significance in the world of heavy metal, and the departure of Chuck Behler and Jeff Young, who played key roles in its creation.
The Making of "So Far, So Good... So What!":
Produced by Dave Mustaine and Paul Lani, with Tim Carr serving as the executive producer, "So Far, So Good... So What!" was a sonic masterpiece that showcased Megadeth's relentless energy and virtuosity. Michael Wagener and Paul Lani shared production and sound engineering duties, with Stephen Marcussen handling the mastering and Matt Freeman working as a sound engineer.
Released under Capitol Records, this album cemented Megadeth's reputation as one of the leading forces in the heavy metal scene of the late '80s. Let's take a closer look at some of the key tracks and elements that make this album a timeless classic.
1. "Into the Lungs of Hell" - The album kicks off with this instrumental track, setting the stage with ominous, atmospheric guitar work that foreshadows the intense experience to come.
2. "Set the World Afire" - A furious assault of riffs and lyrics reflecting on the threat of nuclear war, this track encapsulates the socio-political themes often found in Megadeth's music.
3. "Anarchy in the U.K". - A cover of the Sex Pistols' punk classic, Megadeth's version adds a heavy metal twist while maintaining the rebellious spirit of the original.
4. "In My Darkest Hour" - A haunting ballad that showcases Dave Mustaine's songwriting depth, this track remains one of the band's most beloved compositions.
5. "Liar" - A blistering indictment of deceit and betrayal, "Liar" exemplifies Megadeth's unapologetic and confrontational style.
6. "Hook in Mouth" - Closing the album with a bang, this track tackles the controversial subject of censorship and the limitations placed on artists.
Departure of Chuck Behler and Jeff Young:
Chuck Behler (drums) and Jeff Young (guitar) played significant roles in the creation of "So Far, So Good... So What!" However, their tenure with Megadeth was short-lived. The duo was let go from the band immediately after the subsequent tour.
The reasons for their departure were primarily related to creative differences and tensions within the band. Dave Mustaine, the driving force behind Megadeth, was known for his uncompromising vision. These differences in musical direction and personal dynamics ultimately led to the decision to part ways with Behler and Young.
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Music Genre: Thrash Metal |
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Album Production Information: The album: "MEGADETH - So Far So Good So What" was produced by: Dave Mustaine and Paul LaniTim Carr - Executive Producer Michael Wagener - Producer, Mix Engineer Paul Lani - Producer, Sound Engineer Stephen Marcussen - Mastering Engineer Matt Freeman - Sound Engineer |
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Record Label Information: Capitol Records C1-48148 |
| Packaging: This album includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by Megadeth and photos of the Megadeth's band members. |
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Media Format: 12" Vinyl LP Record |
| Year & Country: 1988 Made in USA |
Band Members and Musicians on: Megadeth So Far So Good So What |
Dave Ellefson ( full-name: David Warren Ellefson ) a highly respected and accomplished musician who has made significant contributions to the world of heavy metal music. As a bassist, songwriter, and founding member of the legendary thrash metal band Megadeth, Ellefson has left an indelible mark on the genre, influencing countless musicians and fans alike. Born in Jackson, Minnesota in 1964, Ellefson began playing bass at the age of 11. He was heavily influenced by hard rock and heavy metal bands such as Black Sabbath, Kiss, and Judas Priest, and began playing in local bands during his teenage years. In the early 1980s, Ellefson moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in music, and it was there that he met guitarist Dave Mustaine, who was forming a new band after being fired from Metallica. Ellefson and Mustaine formed Megadeth in 1983, and the band quickly established itself as a major force in the thrash metal scene. Ellefson's aggressive, intricate bass lines and tight rhythmic sense helped define the band's sound, and his songwriting contributions were crucial to the success of many of the band's most iconic songs, including "Peace Sells," "Holy Wars... The Punishment Due," and "In My Darkest Hour." Throughout Megadeth's early years, Ellefson and Mustaine were the band's driving creative force, with Ellefson playing a key role in the songwriting and production of the band's early albums. However, in 2002, Ellefson left the band following a falling out with Mustaine. He went on to form several other musical projects, including the band F5 and the group Temple of Brutality, and also pursued a career as a solo artist and producer. In 2010, Ellefson rejoined Megadeth, and has remained a vital part of the band ever since. In addition to his work with Megadeth, Ellefson has continued to pursue a wide range of musical projects, including collaborations with other artists and his own solo work. He is also an accomplished author, having published a memoir entitled "My Life with Deth: Discovering Meaning in a Life of Rock and Roll" in 2013. In addition to his contributions to the world of heavy metal music, Ellefson is also known for his philanthropic work, particularly in the areas of education and music therapy. He has established several charitable organizations, including the Ellefson Youth Music Foundation, which provides music education programs for children and young adults. Jeffrey "Jeff" Young an American Guitar player born in 1962 Ann Arbor, Michigan. He started his musical career as a guitar teacher and replaced his student ( Jay Reynolds / Chris Poland ) in the American Thrash Metal band "Megadeth" , with whom he recorded the album "So Far, So Good... So What!."." |
Track Listing of: Megadeth So Far So Good So What |
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The Song/tracks on "Megadeth So Far So Good So What " are
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Album cover photos of : Megadeth So Far So Good So What |
| Photo of Front Cover |
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| Photo of Album's Back Cover |
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| Photo of Album's Inner Cover |
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Close-up Photo of Record Label
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Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ). |
Megadeth is a thrash metal band that was formed in 1983 by Dave Mustaine and David Ellefson after Mustaine was fired from Metallica. The band has released over 15 studio albums, selling over 50 million records worldwide. Megadeth is considered to be one of the "Big Four" of thrash metal, along with Metallica, Slayer, and Anthrax.
History
After being fired from Metallica in 1983, Dave Mustaine returned to Los Angeles and formed Megadeth with David Ellefson, Greg Handevidt, and Dijon Carruthers. The band's first album, "Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good!", was released in 1985 and showcased the band's aggressive thrash metal sound. However, the band's early years were marked by numerous lineup changes, with Mustaine being the only constant member.
Megadeth's breakthrough album, "Peace Sells... but Who's Buying?", was released in 1986 and featured the hit single "Peace Sells". The album's political lyrics and heavy sound appealed to a growing audience of thrash metal fans, and it established Megadeth as a major force in the genre. The band's next two albums, "So Far, So Good... So What!" and "Rust in Peace", continued to cement their reputation as one of the top thrash metal bands.
In the early 1990s, Megadeth's popularity began to wane, and the band struggled with substance abuse and internal conflicts. However, they rebounded with the release of "Countdown to Extinction" in 1992, which became their most commercially successful album to date. The album's more accessible sound and lyrics appealed to a wider audience, and it earned Megadeth a Grammy nomination for Best Metal Performance.
Over the next two decades, Megadeth continued to release albums and tour extensively, maintaining their status as one of the top thrash metal bands in the world. They have faced numerous lineup changes, with Mustaine remaining the only consistent member throughout the band's history. In 2020, the band released their 16th studio album, "Dystopia", which received critical acclaim and earned the band their first Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance.
Musical Style
Megadeth's musical style is characterized by fast, aggressive guitar riffs, complex song structures, and politically charged lyrics. Dave Mustaine's distinctive guitar playing style, which emphasizes intricate solos and rapid-fire picking, has influenced countless heavy metal guitarists. The band's sound is heavily influenced by classical music, with many of their songs featuring complex arrangements and multiple movements.
Lyrically, Megadeth often tackles political and social issues, including war, government corruption, and environmentalism. Many of their songs also address personal struggles, such as addiction and mental illness. Mustaine's lyrics are often introspective and vulnerable, and they have resonated with a generation of heavy metal fans.
Impact
Megadeth's impact on the world of heavy metal cannot be overstated. Along with Metallica, Slayer, and Anthrax, they are considered to be one of the "Big Four" of thrash metal, and they have inspired countless heavy metal bands over the past three decades. Their aggressive sound and politically charged lyrics have influenced the development of numerous sub-genres of heavy metal, including death metal, black metal, and progressive metal.